Choosing a Wireless Security Camera Kit

A wireless security camera kit is a good way to see if video
surveillance is right for you. DIY security camera kits usually include a
wireless video security camera and a base unit. The base unit receives
the signal from the camera, and outputs it to your TV or monitor. Some
camera kits also include a small monitor for viewing your images, which
can be a big help during set-up.

Small, single-camera systems like this are great for viewing activity in
a focused area.

Good indoor spots include:

Front entryway

Kids' play area

Baby's room

Kitchen

Family room

Outdoor home security cameras
let you observe:

Front door

Pool

Patio

Driveway

Workshop

Wireless cameras are also available in covert, or spy
versions. These are best for quick, temporary installations. For
permanent installations, I recommend hardwired spy cameras.

Having problems with vandalism or theft? A wireless security camera kit
can be installed quickly and used to see what’s going on. By combining a
motion sensitive camera with a digital video recorder, you can check on
activity even when you’re not home.

If you're thinking about getting a DVR (Digital Video Recorder), find out what to look for when shopping. Check out these helpful tips on
Choosing DVR Camera Systems.

Typical Wireless Security Camera Kit

The wireless security camera system shown here is an example of a
very basic unit. It transmits audio and color video, and has only a
single channel. If you need more than one camera (or think you might,
someday) look for a 2- or 4-camera system.

The camera in this kit is powered by a plug-in transformer power
supply, or through a 9-volt battery connector. The power supply and
connector are included, while the battery itself is not.

By the way, powering any camera with batteries is not going to
give much useful viewing time, since even the smallest wireless cameras
drain power quickly. For permanent installations, a power supply is
definitely the way to go.

The base unit of this wireless security camera system also runs
on an included power supply. Use the supplied RCA cables to connect the
audio and video outputs from the base unit to your television’s A/V
input jacks. Set the TV to the chosen input, and you’re in business!

As it turns out, the battery option for the camera does
have one very good use. It’s perfect for testing the view from various
locations during initial setup. First, set up the base unit with its
power supply, and connect it to your TV or monitor. Then, connect the
wireless camera, adapter, and battery together.

You should now be able to see the live video image from the camera
displayed on the monitor. This makes it easy to try different mounting
locations and viewing angles to get the exact picture you’re looking
for.

For viewing any area outdoors, it’s a good idea to check different
viewing angles at different times of the day. Morning or afternoon sun
can cause glare, and render the camera worthless as the lighting
changes. Aiming a camera from inside a home toward the outside can cause
too much backlighting, and will make the person or subject appear in
silhouette.

Range on wireless security cameras for home use can vary. This
system is advertised as having an operating range of 150 feet, and
reviews seem to indicate between 100 and 200 feet. Your mileage may
vary, depending on your home’s construction and any obstacles between
the camera and the base receiver.

Choosing a Wireless Video Surveillance System

If you like the results from this wireless security camera kit,
you’ll probably think of other places in your home you’d want to
monitor. In all the years I’ve installed camera systems, I don’t
remember a single customer who ever bought cameras and then had them removed. On the other hand, I can think of plenty who have added more units!

If you do decide to go for a bit larger multi-camera or DVR security
camera system, you may end up going with hardwired equipment. In that
case, this wireless security camera kit could be used for choosing
locations for your wired cameras. Try out different camera positions
with the wireless system until you find one you like. Then, run camera
cables to those locations to connect the wired units.

When choosing any wireless video surveillance system, try to get all the
equipment from one supplier. A complete package or kit will contain the
right cables, adapters, and power supplies for each component. This can
save you a lot of trouble searching for small parts and accessories.

Also, complete kits have components chosen to be compatible with each
other. This means it will all work together, once it’s installed.

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